Alaska Fishing & Wilderness Dining

The best meal you'll eat in Alaska is the fish you catch yourself. It's a big promise, but one that's easy to deliver on this exclusive day of Alaska fishing and wilderness dining.

Our skilled guides escort you on a journey of discovery normally experienced only by local residents. Explore the breathtaking landscape of Alaska's southeast coastline aboard an intimate open-air skiff. Fish for rockfish, lingcod, and halibut in exclusive Ketchikan fishing locations, then dine on your catch at our remote campsite surrounded by the incredible beauty of Alaska.

Perfect for serious adventurers or families looking for an intimate wilderness journey, this is the tour that's highest rated for its authentic Alaskan experience. There's simply no better way to experience all the best of what Alaska offers.

Alaska Fishing & Wilderness Dining FAQ's

What is a skiff?
A skiff is an open boat that is propelled by an outboard motor. We operate two models of skiffs, our 21-foot Raider skiffs, and our 20-foot Lund skiffs, both equipped with Honda 75 or 90 HP outboard motors. They are fast, comfortable, and great for fishing and exploring. A skiff is a modern cousin to Vancouver's longboat, or the Native Alaskan oceangoing canoe. Our skiffs seat up to five adults in comfortable, padded chairs.

How many passengers can each boat accommodate? We like to ensure that all guests are as comfortable as possible when joining us for their fishing adventure. Therefore, we limit guests to 5 in each skiff, but the average is 4.

What fishing and outfitting gear is provided?
Each guest is provided with Helly Hansen waterproof rain pants, rain coat, warm wool hat, wool socks, rubber boots, and gloves. You will be prepared for any weather (and you'll definitely want to have someone take a photo of you dressed in true Alaskan fashion!). We are proud to feature Penn rods on our excursions and a selection of rods which varies depending on the species of fish we are pursuing.

How will we find your marina when we arrive?
If you are arriving in Ketchikan by cruise ship we will arrange for your guide to be waiting for you at the pier upon your arrival. Scan the crowd for the guy or gal with the guise of a fisherperson holding a sign with your name on it. Your guide will walk you to our marina. Depending on where your ship is docked the walk is 2-8 minutes. Upon arrival at the marina your guide will lead you through the outfitting and licensing process. If you are not traveling aboard a cruise ship, you can find us at the end of Main Street at the "Alaska Fish House". If you need additional directions please call Chuck or Kayleigh at 907-225-4055.

I have a tendency to get seasick, will that be a problem?
We have been operating fishing tours for ten years, and we rarely have passengers that have to deal with seasickness, even those who are prone to motion sickness are comfortable on our boats. The boats which we operate have a low center of gravity, eliminating the rolling motion that usually generates a queasy stomach. However, if you do get sick there will be no extra charge.

What do I need to fish?
In order to fish, the State of Alaska requires you to purchase a one day Alaska fishing license. The cost of a non-resident 1 day fishing license is $20.00. King salmon tags are an additional $10.00.

Can you accommodate a special request? - I'd like to create a lifelong memory
Absolutely! You're fishing excursion with Baranof should be one of the most memorable excursions you do in Alaska, and that means we are there to make it happen. We can arrange for an amazing array of personal details, from a stop at a special beach or island, a search for specific wildlife, or a particular bottle of wine to take with you. If you have a desire, share it with us and we will work to make it happen. When it comes to celebrations and events, we know that attention to small details makes it a perfect day.

What if I feel the need to visit a restroom?
Facilities are available at our marina before we depart and as we return. In addition, if you need to go ashore during the fishing or exploring portion of the trip, your guide will happily find a beautiful beach and pull the skiff in for a "break." A portion of our fleet has private areas for onboard "breaks" and we can place you on one of our raiders if onboard facilities are important.

What is the activity level on this tour? Is it safe? Moderately active persons who are comfortable being outdoors for four to six hours will enjoy this excursion the most. A private tour is a perfect choice for those who may need assistance due to limited mobility. Our vessels are safe, ocean-going vessels piloted by professional, US Coast Guard licensed captains. All boats are well-equipped with VHF radios as well as all safety equipment required by the Coast Guard.

We recommend children be at least five years of age. Our guides fish with their small children ages four and up all the time, and they love it! Parents know their children best: you are most qualified to judge whether your young child will enjoy herself on the boat. Young children normally need help reeling in fish.

Will I see wildlife?Wildlife is never guaranteed, however, large numbers of eagles congregate in the Ketchikan area. Eagle encounters are an integral part of our day, and a highlight for locals and visitors alike. In fact, eagles regularly circle above our skiffs, and have been known to swoop down and snatch a rockfish if one doesn't quite make it to the boat. Seals are also prevalent during the summer. They lounge on the rocky islands in the area, or pop up nearby to cast a curious look. Humpbacks and pods of killer whales (orcas) are Ketchikan's summer residents, and are normal visitors when the spring Kings are in. Your local guide is an expert at scouting out the telltale puff of a whale spout. Bears sightings are possible, especially if we approach a salmon stream during spawning season. Let your guide know if you are interested in a specific animal.

What species of fish can I catch?
There are 32 species of rockfish in Southeast Alaska. 15 of them frequent the water depths we will be fishing. Pacific red snapper (Yelloweye Rockfish), Silvergray Rockfish, Copper Rockfish, and Quillback Rockfish are some tasty varieties we will encounter. The classic Alaskan "flatfish," the Pacific Halibut, is also a Ketchikan resident. June through September is peak salmon season, which will be evident by the occasional silver flash of a leaping fish as we ply the waters. Dungeness crab are an abundant, rich and tasty delicacy residing on the ocean floor beneath the boat. Our professional guides know this area well and appreciate what it means to fish in one of the wildest, most well-managed and sustainable fisheries on earth. Remember, this is Alaska: if you like catching fish, you've come to the right place!

Can I keep my fish, eat my fish, or ship it home?
Yes, you can. We can arrange to have your fish processed, packaged, frozen, and shipped to your door. There are several fish processors in Ketchikan who can accommodate this. The cost is between $4 – 6 per pound, including the cost of next-day shipping. (Though it is not the most cost-effective way to purchase fish, who can beat sharing their own fish with friends at home?) In addition, if you are traveling by cruise ship, some chefs will allow you to bring a fish aboard to be the highlight of your meal that evening. The chefs in our restaurant, the Alaska Fish House, would also be honored to cook your fish for a nominal charge if your schedule allows.

I'm traveling in a group. Can we all stay together even if we are in two or more boats? Not a problem! Our guides enjoy traveling as a group; quite often we will buddy up at the fishing grounds. If you have two or more boats fishing, be aware that you will probably find yourself involved in a friendly competition to see which boat brings in the biggest fish, the most fish, or even the ugliest fish! Fishing seems to bring out the competitive nature in all of us!

After fishing, the skiff heads ashore to a wilderness campsite, where a crackling fire awaits you, deep in the rain forest of ancient cedars and spruce. Here, you'll enjoy a gourmet meal of freshly caught fish. Watch your camp prepare a perfectly poached halibut fillet to serve atop a saffron-infused, bouillabaisse-inspired stew (no shellfish). With each meal savor fire-warmed sourdough bread with a garlic-aioli spread, a signature rhubarb/blueberry bread pudding, and steaming mugs of coffee or hot chocolate. You'll leave content in the knowledge that you have experienced the Alaskan way of life.

Will I have time to shop in Ketchikan if I arrive by cruise ship? We are very conveniently located in downtown Ketchikan, and a stone's throw from a variety of excellent shops. A four-hour tour will leave you with enough time to search for that perfect Ketchikan souvenir. The full-day tour will allow for some quick shopping before you re-board your ship. If you need assistance in locating something, just let us know; this is our home.

I'd like to propose to my girlfriend while on the water. Can you provide me with a perfect sunny day, a backdrop of a breaching whale, and an eagle circling overhead right when I take out the ring? Well... you might have to ask a higher power about that! However, fantastic combinations of Alaskan magic are not as uncommon as you think. And if you have a special celebration or event that you would like to arrange while on our tour – no problem at all! Private touring is about special requests, and we would love to add the perfect touch to your once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Customer Testimonials

"If I stopped at this tour – I would be happy the rest of the trip. I only wish we could have done this every day!" – Bob B

"An absolutely perfect excursion! Wonderful guide, great fishing & food...We will definitely take this excursion again on our next visit to Ketchikan!" – Darryn O.

"Our Guide took us to some beautiful places & we caught many different fish. The meal cooked with the fish we caught was the best meal on our whole trip!!" – James & Karin D.

"A great experience for the whole family! The fishing was great. A unique way to see Alaska up close!" – Ted M.

"This was the real highlight of the trip – we caught great fish, saw the shoreline away from the city, eagles up close and enjoyed fine shore dining with a warm campfire. We felt well cared for, safe, and we would highly recommend this excursion!" – J.R.

Send us your Questions

Thank you for your interest in Alaska fishing with Baranof! This is the trip of a lifetime so please don't be bashful: no question is too silly, and no request too outrageous. We look forward to answering your questions and customizing your trip. Based on your inquiry, we will find the perfect person to reply, in detail, within one business day.